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Robert Rogers’ Rules for the Ranging Service: An Analysis

This excellent book is written by historical re-enactor Matt Wulff who is part of a “ranger” living history company. His in-depth analysis of the 28 Rules of Ranging issued by Captain Robert Rogers to his irregular troops during the French and India War gives insight into how lightly armed, highly mobile troops could survive in a warzone without external support.

Rogers’ Rangers are considered the precursor to the modern American Army’s Ranger regiments and the tactics outlined by Rogers are still viable today. Wulff not only gives each of the rules a thorough examination but illustrates their applications by using historical documents like journals and battlefield reports and even uses photos from modern re-enactments.

While a wonderful and informative text for the history buff, this book will also serve the small survivalist group well. For families or groups planning to bug out through potentially hostile terrain, or for small groups planning on defending a given area this discussion of old fashioned Ranger warfare, with an emphasis on primitive weapons and equipment, will help readers formulate the plans and logistics you’ll need to operate continuously with little hope for resupply aside from what your wits and hunting ability can gather. It will be especially helpful for those without military experience who will be in areas like the South West or near large cites where guerrilla warfare against armed gangs will become likely in even minor civil disruptions.